Pet Talk: Tiny dog has big appeal

Continuing with the British flavor of my columns, I have chosen the Cavalier King Charles spaniel for my breed this month.

Rene Knapp

Continuing with the British flavor of my columns, I have chosen the Cavalier King Charles spaniel for my breed this month.

This little lapdog with a pointy nose, high set ears and soft, full eyes, became so popular under Charles II, he actually was given the King’s name!

Then the dukes of Marlborough developed one of the four-color strains and named it after their family castle, Blenheim. There are the white and chestnut markings. Other breeds include a white variety with black and tan markings, a solid, rich red called ruby, and a black with bright, tan markings.

These dogs have been bred for hundreds of years as a companion for humans, and they are sweet, eye-pleasing little dogs. It comes as no surprise this breed is the No. 1 toy dog in England. They are known as the “comforter spaniel” and they are sensitive enough for the sedentary lifestyle of an elderly couple, or robust enough to fit into a young, active family.

But, as easygoing as they are, they require one thing that is a must: attention, and plenty of it. These dogs are extremely family oriented and if attention is withheld, they just pine away. They are definitely not the dog for someone who prefers an outside dog or a dog with a more independent temperament. They are an enchanting breed and extremely affectionate.

What to expect

The Cavalier King Charles spaniel is about 12 inches to 13 inches tall and weighs less than 18 pounds. Their life span is nine years to 12 years. They have a moderate activity level, in that they love a good romp, but also are quite happy to settle down indoors and have a nice nap next to you. Cavaliers are the perfect house dog. He hasn’t forgotten his sporting-dog roots. They have good little noses and they can flush out a bird or two in their back yard.

You really need to have a fenced-in yard for your cavalier, or be able to go to a fenced-in area to run your dog if you live in an apartment. These little guys will go up to anyone at anytime and are so social, they will just jump into any car that has another dog or friendly person in it. It would be really easy to lose your best friend, so do not let them run on their own, even when you are with them.

Cavaliers have a silky coat, which require brushing a few times per week. That is another reason they cannot be outside dogs: the coat will not protect your pooch from the elements. The coats are, however, fairly dirt resistant.

There are health concerns with this breed, so it is imperative potential owners seek breeders who do appropriate health testing of all their animals and document those tests. This breed is prone to heart problems, namely mitral valve disease, in which the heart valve deteriorates and leaks, leading to congestive heart failure. They also can be prone to cataracts and hip dysplasia, or slipping kneecaps. Another serious problem can be syringomylia, in which fluid collects in a cavity of the spinal cord, causing a permanently twisted neck and weakness in the legs.

It is important to be selective when choosing a puppy. Like anything, it pays to wait for a puppy from a reputable breeder, even if it means a six-month wait. At least you will have the security of knowing your future puppy will have the best possibility for a healthy and long life.

These little dogs interest me a lot. They are good with children and with other animals. In fact, it is said their affinity for other animals is unparalleled. If you are interested in a true companion animal for your family, check out this breed at www.ackcsc.org, whether you are interested in finding a good breeder or rescue.

Rene Knapp writes Pet Talk for the Norwich Bulletin. Reach her at helpingpaws@sbcglobal.net.

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